Electric propulsion system has saved over 700,000 tons of fuel for marine vessels

ABB has announced the total fuel savings of the entire installed Azipod fleet since being launched is estimated to be more than 700,000 tons.

The gearless, steerable propulsion system reduces fuel consumption by up to 20% and achieves decimetre accurate manoeuvrability without the aid of tugboats. It is installed on a wide range of vessels, including the world’s largest cruise ship, the most advanced icebreaker, one of the largest crane vessels in Asia, a 105m luxury superyacht, and most recently, an innovative cargo transfer vessel. According to shipbroker and research firm, Clarkson’s Research, the number of vessels with electric propulsion is growing at a pace of 12% per year, three times faster than the world’s fleet.

The Azipod electrical propulsion system features an electric motor with propeller mounted inside a streamlined pod capable of 360° movement beneath the ship to drive and steer the ship at the same time. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the system has evolved to become the industry standard for the marine industry.

“Much has changed in the shipping sector since we introduced the first Azipod but the desire for efficiency, manoeuvrability and reliability remains the same,” said Juha Koskela, managing director of ABB’s Marine and Ports business. “The fact that Azipod propulsion remains the dominant force in podded electric propulsion shows our commitment to meet our customer’s needs.”